Rental Solutions and Events Rescues Displaced Fire Department

Eldersburg, Md.-based Rental Solutions and Events recently responded when a roof collapse and fire destroyed the social hall, offices and a bunk area at the Sykesville Freedom District Fire Department. The rental company provided temporary living quarters and equipment solutions to keep the fire department in service.

Following the record-breaking blizzard on Feb. 10, an older portion of the fire department’s roof was heavily weighed down by several feet of snow, causing a collapse. The collapsed structure struck a gas line in the building and ignited a fire, destroying a social hall, administrative offices, and the men’s bunk room in a matter of moments. The station’s day room, TV room, kitchen and classroom all received considerable smoke and water damage, causing a complete shut-down of firehouse operations.

Rental Solutions and Events, located just one mile from the fire department, quickly stepped in to construct temporary living quarters, a full-service kitchen, restroom facilities, and power and climate control equipment to get the department back in action. Working directly with Carroll County Government’s Emergency Management division and the Sykesville Freedom District Fire Department, the setup was completed within 24 hours. Full firehouse operations were resumed by Feb. 14, just three days after the fire.

“We are honored to help these men and women who risk their lives every day to save others,” said Tom Brown Jr., vice president of Rental Solutions and Events. “Supplying essential resources quickly after a disaster is one of the things we do best. It’s a gratifying position to be in when you are able to provide assistance to the community in a time of need.”

The main temporary structure includes a 50-foot by 66-foot tent divided into three main sections. It includes a full-service kitchen with an ansul skid for cooking, a living area with electricity, television, sitting furniture, and a bunk room for sleeping, as well as restroom facilities for both men and women. Rental Solutions and Events also supplied a portable trailer to serve as the main watch office, several storage trailers, and additional tented areas for sleeping bunks.

Rental Solutions and Events provides equipment rentals, sales, service and supplies. For more information, visit RentalSolutions.net.